Liliana Ruiz Diaz

Liliana Ruiz Diaz received both her B.S. and M.S. degrees in physics at the University of Texas at Brownsville, where she studied the optical properties of nano-scaled photonic materials. Now, as a Ph.D. student in the College of Optical Sciences, she is working on larger macro-scaled solar systems. Her current research involves the design and improvement of hybrid solar collectors, which use parabolic mirrors to collect ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared sunlight. Hybrid systems are more efficient than traditional photovoltaic systems because they store a fraction of the sunlight as heat and convert solar energy into electricity using high-efficiency solar cells. Because of their efficiency and storage capabilities, hybrid systems are suitable for clean, dispatchable, mass-produced sources of electricity. Liliana and her research group are preparing to build an eight-meter prototype which will be installed in Tucson. In addition to her interest in renewable energy, Liliana is also an advocate of science outreach and STEM diversification. As an active member of the Women in Optics student club, she helps promote science among elementary and high school students.

Accepted Scholar:

Accepted